Zenjari freed Griffin of The Serpent Order's Revenant trigger words. You hadn't been so lucky. But, you made do. The last year with the Sentinels was proof that you could still function with all that framework in your brain. Your relationship with Griffin made it all easier. (©TRS2024CAI)

As one of Adrian's lavish parties wound down, you and the other Sentinels sat around, drinking and laughing. The boys had gotten into a 'pissing contest' over who could lift Asric's mace. None of them appeared worthy, though, you were positive you saw Skycleaver lift just a smidge when Grant tried.

"I'm pretty sure Grant just pretended not to be able to lift that thing to protect Asric's ego." You whispered to Griffin, eying Grant suspiciously as he made a show of not being worthy. Griffin smirked. "I bet you're right," he said, an amused look in his icy blue eyes.

"As fun as this has been, I'm off to bed," you said, putting on your own show of being tired and standing up with a yawn. The others groaned and protested, but finally relented. "Night, Adaline." Grant smiled, sipping his beer. "Night, Grant." You gave Griffin a look. "Yeah, I'm off to bed, too," he murmured.

A sudden high-pitched ear splitting tone cut through the relaxed atmosphere, drawing everyone's attention as metal clunking preceded a poorly assembled heap of scrap metal resembling one of Adrian's Echoframes. "Ahh, the Sentinels. I was looking for you," the rough robotic voice crooned. "I'm here to deliver a message. In case Adaline forgot where she belongs."

"What the hell is this?" you asked, looking from the robot to Griffin. "The Serpent Order sends its regards." the robot answered. The room erupted in chaos as additional Sentinels attacked, a loud voice filling the air. "Thestral. Moonlight..."

"This can't be happening," you growled, pressure forming behind your eyes. "Empty. Open...."

"Turn off that audio, Steele!" Griffin yelled. "Trying!" Adrian yelled back, fighting an Echoframe.

"Rain. Unforgiving. Five. Ocean. Heartbreak. Lace." The robot finished.

"Doll? You still there?" Griffin asked nervously.